Multifocal Contact Lenses for Presbyopia: Are They Right for You?

If you have presbyopia and are looking to be fit with contact lenses, your eye doctor may recommend multifocal contacts. These lenses are designed for patients who have presbyopia, which is the gradual loss of your eye’s focusing power over time.

In the video below, Dr. Ryan Corte talks about multifocal contact lenses and when they work best.

How do multifocal contact lenses work?

Multifocal contacts allow both of your eyes to work as a team so you can see clearly up close AND far away. Also, they look and feel the same as any other contact lens, so comfort typically isn’t an issue. Just like reading glasses, they come in different strengths and can significantly improve your quality of life.

On the other hand, hard and hybrid multifocal contact lenses are a great alternative to soft multifocals. These lenses often take longer for your eye doctor to fit and are mostly reserved for people who have astigmatism or require strict visual requirements.

When your doctor first fits you with multifocal contact lenses, keep in mind the following:

1) They work BEST with both eyes together.

Therefore, don’t go back and forth comparing your vision between each eye. It won’t be as clear as your vision with both eyes together and it will drive you crazy!

2) They often take time to adapt to.

Keep in mind, they may require a week or two of wearing before you know if they’re going to fit your lifestyle.

3) They work best in environments with good lighting conditions.

As a result, driving at night or reading in a dimly lit room may be challenging.

Dr. Ryan Corte was born and raised in Novi, MI where he attended Novi High School. He graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutritional Science in 2008. He also attended The Ohio State University College of Optometry where he graduated with a Doctor of Optometry degree in 2012.
Dr. Corte completed an Optometric Residency in Primary Care and Ocular Disease at the Illinois College of Optometry in 2013. During his residency, he obtained advanced clinical competency to practice optometry at the highest level as well as provided educational assistance and supervision of third and fourth year students as a clinical faculty member. He now practices just north of Charlotte, NC at Northlake Eye.
In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Corte has contributed to optometry through multiple leadership roles. He is a former Executive President of the American Optometric Student Association and is currently serving on the Young ODs and Membership committee of the North Carolina Optometric Society Optometric. He also was a senior journalist for NewGradOptometry.com and is a co-founder of CovalentCareers.com. Dr. Corte thrives on involvement and looks forward to remaining very active throughout his professional career.
Outside of work, he loves spending time with his wife, family and friends as well as continuing to stay active in his community and in life.